Travelling to and from Darwin from Alice Springs provided an opportunity to visit a favourite birding spot - Longreach Waterhole, near Elliott, NT. In the past I have incorrectly called this Lake Woods. On previous visits I have been able to watch Little Black Cormorants in their thousands fly in to the Waterhole early in the morning and feed. This time it was Australian Pelicans that were the main feeding bird, although there were still lots of Little Black Cormorants, as well as Whistling and Black Kites, Egrets and Royal Spoonbills and a few other varieties. But the main action came from the Pelicans.
The waterhole is about 11 kms from the Stuart Highway along a dirt road. It is accessible for caravans, but very slowly. There is now a sign on the Stuart Highway, just north of Elliott. his hasn't always been the case. During certain times of the year, the road is inaccessible due to flooding, but when it is safe to travel, the location is well worth the detour if you have the time. Elliott is roughly half way between Alice Springs and Darwin.
it was interesting to watch the Pelicans working together to herd the fish and then duck dive. It is amazing to think how many fish must be there to feed such a huge appetite. At some point, the Pelicans will move on, but while it is happening, it would be well worth a visit.
Australian Pelican
Royal Spoonbill
Little Black Cormorant
